(although I prefer locally grown fresh produce) with no added sugar. Berries, tomatoes, nuts and seeds, bell peppers, avocado, kale, spinach and other leafy greens, pomegranate, eggs, potatoes, edamame, fresh herbs, and quinoa are all super foods. Low fat dairy such as cheese and yogurt is also critical given the calcium boost needed for aging bones. And don’t forget a piece of dark chocolate and bit of red wine may be good for you too! Warm Quinoa Salad with Ginger Sesame Dressing A quick, healthy, colorful meal loaded with vegetables, fruit, lean protein, antioxidants, amino acids, and a bit of Asian flavor! Try it with the vegetables and fruit listed or whatever you have on hand. The vinaigrette is also good on grilled protein and vegetables. ■
Ginger Sesame Dressing
A quick and easy healthy quinoa salad dressed in sweet and tangy Asian flavors, loaded with tons of veggies!
Print Ingredients Salad: • 1 cup quinoa • ½ cup shredded red cabbage • ½ cup diced red bell pepper • 1 small bag broccoli salad • ¼ bunch cilantro leaves only, slightly chopped • ½ cup edamame (no pods) • 2 large basil leaves, chiffonade • 1 Clementine or small tangerine separated into sections, pith and membranes removed • 1 green onion, thinly sliced • 1 avocado, halved, seeded, peeled and diced • Sesame seeds For the sesame vinaigrette: • ¾ c rice vinegar • 2 cloves garlic, pressed • 2 tablespoon sesame oil • 2 tablespoon sugar • 2 teaspoon soy sauce • 2 teaspoon grated ginger • Sprinkle of crushed red pepper (optional – I like a little kick plus cayenne gives your metabolism a boost!) Instructions
Tira Collins is the owner of Comfort N Spice Personal Chef Service, a member of the American Personal Chef Association, fully insured and is licensed by the State of Illinois. Chef Tira combines her love of food and cooking with the desire to help others enjoy healthy and flavorful food. www.comfortnspice.com
• To make the vinaigrette, whisk together rice wine vinegar, garlic, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, soy sauce, and crushed pepper (if using) in a small bowl; set aside. • In a medium saucepan, cook quinoa according to
package instructions. • In a large bowl, combine quinoa and all vegetables and the tangerine. Top with cilantro and basil. Add avocado just before serving. Stir in sesame vinaigrette. • Serve immediately, topped with sesame seeds if desired. Note: Add grilled chicken, turkey, salmon, tofu or shrimp if you’d like.